Chambers rally for Nepal quake relief

Following the disastrous earthquake of 7.8-magnitude that struck Nepal on 24 April, ICC World Chambers Federation (WCF) is rallying its chamber members and the global business community to make donations to “Operation Relief”.

“Operation Relief” is an initiative activated by the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) to provide support for relief efforts and for victims.

To support on-going earthquake relief operations, financial support to receive wire transfers for the initiative is being channelled through FNCCI’s partnership with Everest Bank.

Conveying condolences on behalf of the world business organization and its network, ICC Secretary General John Danilovich said: “ICC stands ready to assist chambers in their on-going relief effort in any way that we can. Our thoughts are with the people of Nepal and everyone affected by the terrible loss of life and widespread damage caused by the earthquake.”

Nepal was hit by the quake that caused major devastation across the country, including the capital city of Kathmandu. The huge infrastructure damage and the significant loss of lives that resulted from the catastrophe have brought unbearable pain and sorrow not only to victims and their families but the entire nation as well.

Reaching beyond their individual neighbourhoods, the global network of chambers, with the support of their respective business communities, helps rebuild disaster affected communities close to and far from their own shores, bringing not only immediate assistance when disaster strikes, but remaining and working with local stakeholders to reconstruct businesses and restore economies.

Chambers of commerce are often the first to respond when disaster strikes. As a natural network with important connections, contacts and local knowledge they are able to act quickly to transmit aid and support to their communities where and when it is needed the most.

“Chambers of commerce are often the first to respond when disaster strikes,” said WCF Director Anthony Parkes. “As a natural network with important connections, contacts and local knowledge they are able to act quickly to transmit aid and support to their communities where and when it is needed the most.”

Organizations in neighbouring countries to Nepal have already begun lending their support, as well as other ICC WCF partner organizations such as Junior Chamber International through its initiative Operation Hope.

CC WCF encourages donations to “Operation Relief”. More information regarding the relief programme and how to contribute can be found on the dedicated Facebook page “FNCCI: Operation Relief“.

The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry is a member of the ICC World Chambers Federation; Confederation of Asia Pacific Chambers of Commerce & Industry and SAARC Chamber.